Historic modern elegance: Jakob Sprenger's Parisian Aesop store

Austrian architect Jakob Sprenger has once again demonstrated his architectural prowess with the design of Aesop’s latest store in Paris, located in the district of Ternes in the 17th arrondissement.

This unique space, nestled within a residential neighbourhood, is a testament to Sprenger’s ability to blend historical elements with modern design, creating a space that embodies Aesop’s ethos of understated luxury.

GALLERY  

The store’s interior is centred around four baroque-style medallions, originally crafted in 1923 for the now-demolished Hotel de la Guilonniere in central Paris. These 19th-century painted gypsum ceiling medallions, discovered during the project’s early stages, have been meticulously installed above a large sculptural sink, which serves as the store’s focal point. This sink, a feature typical of Aesop stores, allows customers to trial and test the brand’s products, while the medallions above add a layer of historical grandeur to the space.

Sprenger’s design cleverly navigates the unusual triangular floorplan of the store. The space is divided into two distinct sections: a primary sales area at the front and a more intimate billing and checkout nook at the back. The geometry of the room, with its narrow corners and wide, south-facing facade, posed a challenge, but Sprenger managed to harmonise the visual tension with softly rounded geometries that bring a sense of balance to the space.

The store’s design is further enhanced by burgundy-toned window bays, which provide seating for customers at either end of the space. Adjacent to one of these windows is a fragrance armoire, where Aesop’s perfume range can be explored. The billing nook, painted in rich burgundy red lacquer with visible brush strokes, creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere, displaying candles and incense on recessed shelves.

One of the key challenges Sprenger faced was amending the store’s facade, which had been added in the 1990s. To create a more inviting ambience, the design team introduced textile awnings and lacquered paneling above a plinth clad in lutecian sandstone. An alabaster-coloured Aesop street sign contrasts with the dark background, adding a touch of elegance to the exterior.

Sprenger, who has previously designed Aesop stores in Rome and Salzburg, approaches each project with a deep respect for its historical, architectural, and cultural context. This Paris store is no exception, embodying his mission to create lasting values that resonate with their surroundings.

Images by Ludovic Balay via Dezeen

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